president obama led a moment of silence at 8:46 a.m., the time the first plane struck the north tower. and later, laid a wreath during a tribute at the pentagon, where 184 people were killed. >> this is never an easy day, but it is especially difficult for all of you. >> reporter: in shanksville, pennsylvania, vice president biden comforted families. while in nevada, mitt romney struck a patriotic tone. during an appearce at the national guards conference. >> we remember with heavy hearts the tragic loss of life. >> reporter: 11 years later, in many places, this anniversary seems more private than public. many communities like glenrock, new jersey which lost 11 residents chose not to hold a formal observance for the first time. >> ronald call fazio, sr. >> reporter: this always will be a deeply personal day for those who lost loved ones. like rob fazio. who says the stories he heard about his father's heroism, while trapped on the 99th floor in his office, has given him a sense of purpose. >> people told us he was literally holding the door to help them. we saw that as an inspiration